530+ Google Reviews
If you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the Social Security Administration (SSA) might ask you to attend a Disability Medical Exam. These exams, commonly referred to as Consultative Examinations (CE), are requested by the SSA during the disability determination process.
A Disability Medical Exam is conducted by an independent doctor who is not involved in your diagnosis, treatment, or care. They assess your medical condition and evaluate your remaining functional abilities. The records from this exam help the Social Security Administration determine if you meet the criteria to receive disability payments.
If you have questions about applying for disability, going to a CE, or fighting a denial, talk to a Rutherfordton Social Security Disability lawyer.
Why the SSA May Request a Disability Medical Exam
Not all claimants are required to attend a Disability Medical Exam as part of the claims process. The Social Security Administration will notify you if you will need to attend an exam by a doctor they choose.
The SSA may request a Consultative Examination when:
- Your medical records do not clearly define and explain your diagnosis
- Your medical records contradict themselves
- Your treating physician did not make or submit adequate records to show your disability
- They need an updated evaluation of your abilities and disabilities
Who Conducts the Consultative Examination?
Under 20 CFR § 404.1517, the Social Security Administration has contracts with independent physicians and psychologists who conduct consultative exams as necessary. These doctors will not provide a diagnosis or treatment. They will only assess your condition to determine if you meet the criteria for disability benefits.
The Social Security Administration will pair you with a doctor near you, schedule the exam, and pay for it. You will not be billed or required to pay any costs for the examination.
Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me 828.286.3866
What Disability Applicants Can Expect During the Exam
The type of examination you receive and what happens during the exam will depend on your disability claim and the type of condition you have.
Some types of exams include:
- Physical exams for musculoskeletal, organ-related, or other internal conditions
- Mental health exams for those with debilitating psychological or emotional concerns
- Neurological testing for brain injuries, seizures, or cognitive impairments
During the examination, the doctor may ask you to complete or provide:
- A relevant medical history related to your condition
- Testing to determine your physical abilities
- Mental status evaluations during a mental health exam
- Cognitive and memory testing for neurological conditions
Tips for Preparing for a Disability Medical Examination
You should not have to do any advance preparation for your Disability Medical Exam. You will simply need to allow the doctor to examine you and follow their instructions. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You may want to bring your medical records or notes to refer to when giving a medical history to ensure you do not forget anything
- You should be honest about your symptoms and limitations
- Be careful not to downplay your limitations, including how often or how long you can participate in activities
- Arrive on time and do not cancel unless absolutely necessary since missing your CE could delay or cause a denial of disability benefits
What Happens After My Disability Medical Exam?
After your Disability Medical Exam, the assigned doctor will submit a report about their findings to the Social Security Administration. The disability examiners determining if you qualify for benefits will use this report to better understand the rest of your medical evidence. They will use your claim and records to decide whether to recommend you be approved for Social Security Disability.
If approved, you will begin receiving benefits shortly. If denied, you can request a reconsideration and begin the appeals process with help from a South Carolina Social Security Disability lawyer.
Myths and Misunderstandings About Disability Medical Exams
There are several misconceptions and misleading advice circulating about medical examinations for disability. Understanding what they are and how they work will allow you to navigate this step in the disability application process without anxiety or a lot of concern.
Some common misconceptions about Disability Exams include:
- The doctor decides if you get approved for SSDI or SSI.
- You should exaggerate your disabilities and do poorly on purpose.
- You do not have to go if you believe your medical records show strong proof of your disability.
All of these are false. In truth:
- The doctor prepares a medical report that is used in conjunction with your other evidence to approve or deny your claim.
- Exaggerating your condition could harm your case and prevent you from being approved.
- Missing a requested Disability Medical Exam could cause your claim to be denied.
If you have any other questions or concerns about attending a CE and what you should do or expect, a Social Security Disability lawyer can help you better understand this process and navigate any issues you run into with getting approved for benefits.
Discuss Your Claim for Benefits with a Social Security Disability Attorney Today
A Disability Medical Exam is often a critical part of the disability determination process. Knowing what to expect can help you reduce your stress about the situation and show up prepared. If the Social Security Administration denies your claim even after the exam, you can appeal. In North Carolina or South Carolina, our attorneys can help.
At Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, we have five office locations across North and South Carolina to serve you. We will review your case for free. Contact us for help getting the Social Security Disability benefits you need.
